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Bloomington Bookfest family event to celebrate reading

Published on February 21, 2019

Bloomington Community Education and the Education Foundation of Bloomington will host Bloomington Bookfest, a free family event to celebrate books and reading, from 9 a.m.-Noon Saturday, March 2 at Oak Grove Middle School, 1300 W. 106th St.

The community-wide celebration coincides with National Read Across America Day and Theodor Seuss Geisel’s (Dr. Seuss) birthday.

The event will feature Minnesota children’s book authors Nancy Carlson (“I Like Me!”; “Sometimes You Barf”) and Douglas Wood (“The Old Turtle”; “A Quiet Place”). Both will have books available for sale and will discuss the creative writing process and how illustrations bring their books to life.

Nine reading-themed rooms will be set up for children and their families, each designed by media specialists from Bloomington elementary schools. All participants will receive a passport to be stamped while visiting rooms, and families will receive a free book to take home once their passport is stamped.

Children will have the opportunity to have their photo taken with special guests Elmo, Clifford and Big Bird in the Bookfest photo booth. Parents are encouraged to share photos on social media using the hashtag #BloomingtonBookfest.

Bloomington Public Schools Early Learning Services will host several short learning sessions focusing on the value of reading in the home. Information about upcoming Bloomington Public Schools, Artistry and City of Bloomington summer programs will also be available.